Dutton-Lainson TW4000 StrongArm Electric Winch # DL25200 Shuts Down When Under Load

Question:

I have purchased a 4500lb boat that has a tw 4000 mounted on the trailar which has roller bunks , when loading the boat the winch will quit when it is under a heavy load . And wont start again has to be cranked in by hand . Any ideas. Thanks.

asked by: Al J

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Dutton-Lainson TW400 StrongArm Electric Winch # DL25200 is rated for use with boats up to 4000-lbs total weight. Having roller bunks provides a definite advantage over standard carpeted bunks since this trailer feature reduces friction. However, if the winch is asked to work beyond its capacity, or if operated for longer than 3 minutes between cool-down breaks, you can certainly run into issues.

A winch's pulling capacity is affected by several factors in addition to the weight of the load. The number of layers of wire/strap on the drum affects weight capacity as does the degree of incline (such as when your boat is being loaded on a very steep ramp). You might care to review the linked article on winches that covers these considerations in greater detail.

You might try hand-cranking the winch to bring the boat to the point where it is mostly/completely supported by the roller bunks and then engage the power to bring it in the rest of the way onto the trailer. This may provide enough operation time to fully load the boat before the protection kicks in.

Another option is a higher-rated winch such as the Dutton-Lainson Strong Arm # DL25215 which is rated for boats up to 9000-lbs. Clearly this winch would have plenty of extra capacity. It also offers a longer 4-minute duty cycle.

expert reply by: Adam R